Our understanding of animals has grown tremendously over the years. Once, it was believed that reptiles and amphibians were simple creatures, incapable of feeling pain or stress. Today, we know this is far from the truth. Scientific research has demonstrated that these cold-blooded creatures are just as capable of experiencing pain and stress as mammals, and they deserve the same protections under the law.

Despite this knowledge, the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), the key federal law that sets minimum standards of care for animals in research, exhibition, transport, and by commercial dealers, fails to include these animals in its definition of "animal". Specifically, the AWA excludes cold-blooded animals, creating a significant loophole that leaves millions of reptiles and amphibians unprotected by federal welfare standards.

This oversight in the AWA (7 U.S.C. § 2132(g)) also allows for unconscionable exploitation and neglect of these animals. Reptiles and amphibians are used in research and are kept in zoos and aquariums, yet they don't receive the same legal protections as their warm-blooded counterparts.

We call upon lawmakers to amend the AWA to include reptiles and amphibians in its provisions. Filling this gap is crucial for advancing animal welfare and aligning the law with our current understanding of these complex creatures.

Let's ensure that all animals, regardless of their body temperature, receive the humane treatment and care they deserve. Please sign this petition to urge Congress to take immediate action to protect these vulnerable animals and amend the Animal Welfare Act accordingly.